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SE Michigan regional report for May 5

Editor’s note: This article is from the archives of the MSUCrop Advisory Team Alerts. Check the label of any pesticide referenced to ensure your use is included.

Weather and insect activity

Southeast Michigan has experienced very warm temperatures over the past two weeks. On several dates, temperatures were in the mid-70s, and reached into the 80s on one day. Nearly three inches of rain fell in the same time period. Field operations have generally been taking place without major problems, but many fields have standing water today after over one and one-half inches of rain on Sunday, May 2, and heavy rain is forecast for later today.

On April 28 and 29, temperatures dropped to freezing or near freezing in Southeast Michigan. There is a great deal of insect activity with the warm weather, but no significant damage has occurred on the cole crops and sweet corn that has been planted. Adult armyworm and black cutworm activity has been reported from locations in southern Ohio. Flea beetles are evident now in cole crop plantings. We may see problems with Stewart’s wilt due to a relatively mild winter and likely higher survivorship of corn flea beetle adults.

Crop report

Cabbage, broccoli, and cauliflower transplants have been in the field now for several weeks at most locations. Warm weather and adequate rainfall have given these transplants a good start.

Sweet corn has been planted now in many locations, and emergence has occurred. Growers were concerned about frost last week, but I have not seen any damage in sweet corn plantings.